Applies relevant theories of mass communication to significant issues of media performance informed by the historical development of industry structures, professional practices, and changing technologies. Topics include journalism in the age of print, TV and cyberspace; propaganda, persuasion, and media influence in the world of public relations and advertising; TV, cable, music, film, and controversies over race, gender, violence, obscenity, and children's programming; and emerging questions about the impact of the information superhighway.